the loathsome

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the loathsome" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something or someone that is highly offensive or disgusting. Example: "The loathsome behavior of the bully shocked everyone in the classroom."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

You can see exactly why Sarah left him for the loathsome Jacques.

The New York Times

Take, for example, the loathsome infinite regress of telephone customer service.

The New York Times - Books

These he contrasts with the loathsome Yahoos, brutes in human shape.

The Guardian - Books

The moors murder case in England led to "The Loathsome Couple".

The New York Times - Arts

RANDY REBUFFED UPDATE: After much thought, Di Lucido declined the loathsome job.

The New York Times - Magazine

But consider the "crooked" Hillary, "lock her up" vitriol and the loathsome misogyny.

The Guardian - Opinion

And what have we done to defend the abject poor from the loathsome Coalition Government and its policies?

Independent

The poster child for drug-price spiking is Martin Shkreli, the loathsome chief executive of Turing Pharmaceuticals.

Independent

He will be punished for repeating in a magazine interview the loathsome things he has said before.

Independent

There were showdowns with the loathsome Dallas Cowboys and a Bay Bridge World Series rocked by an earthquake.

The New York Times - Sports

After winning the loathsome prize in 1986, Amis put his derision in abeyance, never expressing his contempt in public again.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the loathsome" to describe something that evokes a strong sense of disgust or repulsion. Ensure that the context clearly justifies such a strong descriptor.

Common error

Avoid using "the loathsome" to describe something only mildly unpleasant. Reserve this phrase for situations that genuinely warrant strong negative feelings, or you risk sounding hyperbolic or insincere.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the loathsome" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It describes something as being intensely disliked or disgusting. Ludwig provides numerous examples from reliable sources demonstrating this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

86%

Encyclopedias

6%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the loathsome" is a phrase used to describe something intensely disliked or disgusting. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and frequently used, predominantly in news and media contexts. While its strong negative connotation makes it effective for expressing disapproval, it should be used judiciously to avoid hyperbole. Alternatives such as ""the detestable"" or ""the abhorrent"" may be suitable depending on the desired level of intensity. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its consistent usage across varied authoritative sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the detestable

Replaces "loathsome" with a synonym emphasizing deserving of intense dislike.

the abhorrent

Emphasizes the repulsiveness of something, similar to "loathsome".

the repugnant

Focuses on the quality of causing disgust.

the revolting

Highlights the tendency to cause revulsion.

the disgusting

Directly expresses a sense of extreme distaste.

the offensive

Indicates that something is causing displeasure or resentment.

the despicable

Suggests that something is worthy of contempt.

the contemptible

Similar to 'despicable', but places emphasis on something being unworthy.

the odious

Emphasizes the quality of inspiring intense dislike or disgust.

the wretched

Focuses on the miserable or contemptible nature of something.

FAQs

How can I use "the loathsome" in a sentence?

Use "the loathsome" to describe something that inspires intense disgust or aversion. For example, "The politician's actions were described as "the loathsome" by many voters."

What are some alternatives to "the loathsome"?

Some alternatives include "the detestable", "the abhorrent", or "the repugnant". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "the loathsome" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "the loathsome" carries a strong negative connotation. Consider your audience and the tone you wish to convey. In some formal contexts, a less emotionally charged term might be more suitable.

What makes something qualify as "the loathsome"?

Something described as "the loathsome" is intensely disliked and evokes feelings of disgust and revulsion. This term is typically reserved for things considered morally reprehensible, extremely unpleasant, or deeply offensive.